Such well made brilliants when held up to a bright light appear almost black -- that is, they fail to pass any of the light through them (except through the tiny culet, which, being parallel to the table above, passes light that comes straight down to it).

However, one must use much judgment in such a case, as sapphires, like other corundum gems, frequently have their color irregularly distributed, and the skillful lapidary will place the culet of the stone in a bit of good color, and thus make the whole stone appear to better advantage.

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A tiny flat facet that diamond cutters sometimes add to the bottom of the stone's pavilion to prevent chipping or damage. The setting itself usually provides enough protection to prevent wear or damage to the pavilion.